Cagayan Authorities Warn of Rocket Debris in Philippine EEZ

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — Authorities in Cagayan, Philippines, have issued a warning to fishermen and coastal communities to avoid waters within the Philippine exclusive economic zone (EEZ) where debris from China's Long March 6A rocket might fall following its scheduled launch on Thursday. The Cagayan Valley Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CVDRRMC) stated in a memo that the projected debris zone is approximately 83 nautical miles (154 kilometers) from Dalupiri Island, 88 nautical miles from Babuyan Island in Cagayan, and 104 nautical miles from Burgos, Ilocos Norte. The council has directed member agencies to monitor the affected areas and coordinate with local governments for necessary response measures. Residents have also been advised to immediately report any suspected rocket debris to authorities and to avoid touching or retrieving the objects due to potential safety risks. This situation highlights growing security concerns among neighboring countries regarding China's space activities in the South China Sea. The Philippines asserts its rights within its EEZ based on international law, and this incident is being closely monitored in that context.